Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Jose Alvarez prepares to throw during the second inning against the Cleveland Indians in Detroit.AP File Photo

DETROIT -- Tigers manager Jim Leyland confirmed Thursday that left-hander Jose Alvarez will start the second game of a day-night doubleheader Friday.

Alvarez was in the Tigers' clubhouse Thursday, but will be officially recalled from Triple-A Toledo on Friday.

The Tigers will not be required to make corresponding move as teams are allowed to expand to a 26-man roster for day-night doubleheaders -- assuming those doubleheaders are scheduled with at least 48 hours' notice.

It's the first time the rule has been applied to the Tigers. Commonly referred to as the 26-man rule, it was implemented last year under the new Collective Bargaining Agreement.

It will be the third stint in the majors for Alvarez, who is 1-2 with a 5.03 ERA in four starts this season. He will be pitching on his normal four days' rest.

"It's a nice opportunity again," Alvarez said. "I'm just trying to enjoy it and do the best I can."

The Tigers will be required to return to the 25-man limit following Friday's game, and it's likely that Alvarez will be optioned to Toledo. However, the club can choose to remove any player from its active roster.

"I don't know how it'll turn out," Alvarez said. "The decision is out of my hands. All I can do is just pitch well and put myself in a good position."

Leyland confirmed earlier this week that ace Justin Verlander will start the first game.